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2009 Review and Evaluation of QCF Regulation

Together with our regulatory partners, DCELLS in Wales and CCEA in Northern Ireland, we commissioned a report on the Evaluation of the regulation of the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF).

Background

We published Regulatory arrangements for the Qualifications and Credit Framework in August 2008. We want to learn from the use of these regulations.

Evidence

Our evaluation has been informed by:

  • feedback from users of the QCF, in particular those who are subject to regulation – a summary report of this feedback is available on this page, it was produced for us by the Centre for Education and Industry, University of Warwick
  • a review of samples of QCF units and qualifications
  • a review of the information we gather from the regulatory processes we have put in place for the QCF.

Outcomes

This evaluation provides an early impression of the progress made and issues experienced in the first year of the implementation of the regulatory requirements for the QCF. In many areas the regulation of the QCF is proceeding well and our stakeholders recognise this. There are some aspects that are causing concern and we have taken immediate action to deal with identified problems. There are other issues that we need to observe and keep under review.

Next steps

There are still some considerable challenges in ensuring that the QCF continues to develop effectively. We will:

  • enhance our regulatory and IT systems
  • continue to check that those submitting units are developing high-quality products that meet regulatory requirements and take action where they do not 
  • use the second year of the evaluation to explore specific aspects of QCF regulation in greater depth.

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